"Om"
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THE
THERAPEUTIC EFFECT OF VINYASA Vinyasa (flow) consists of several movements which blend together to form a sequence. The Sun Salutation or any of the many variations (of which Dancing Warrior is one) can be performed by just about anyone with access to a flat surface (and maybe a sticky mat). Based on my reading, personal experience and the experience of others, it’s clear to me that vinyasa offers many physical and mental benefits. Vinyasa affects every part of the body. The nervous system, the circulation and the respiration are also significantly influenced. The spine is bent and stretched during each sequence. In this way the spine regains its flexibility and the muscles are better able to bring or hold the vertebrae in position. The back and the front of the pelvis is stretched, extended and relaxed. After a time it regains its flexibility which can help prevent osteoarthritis of the pelvis and hips. The legs, thus also the knees, ankles and foot joints, become suppler and also stronger because the alternating contraction and relaxation in the movement strengthens the muscles. The chest, with the ribs is exercised intensively when the arms are stretched up and lowered down again. This movement has a positive effect on the lungs, the heart and due to the improved respiration, the psyche too. Considerably more happens in the abdominal cavity where the stomach, pancreas, liver and gall bladder are to be found. The kidneys and adrenal glands lie somewhat posteriorly; the bladder and uterus lie lower in the abdomen. With every sequence of the vinyasa the abdominal contents are massaged and stretched which improves the blood circulation. One ought not to forget or underestimate the effect on the bowels. These are stimulated, so that the abdominal contents do not remain too long in one place and the waste products are removed. Bowels that function well maintain health. The shoulder and neck muscles are often under considerable strain; which makes them painful and hard. As a result of the movements of the vinyasa and the improved respiration, the muscles become much more supple and also stronger. Also the muscle attachments on the head (often a cause of headache) become less inflexible, due to the improved circulation which occurs when the head hangs down during the flow. The brain also benefits from this improved circulation. The muscles in the arms and those related to the elbows, wrists and fingers become more supple and stronger. After a while a correction slowly but surely appears in the body: rounded shoulders and bent backs disappear, hollow backs become less hollow and the head becomes more upright on the trunk. Improves overall strength, flexibility and endurance. Helps slim the belly, hips and thighs; improves posture and balance; and promotes graceful movement. Increases the strength and efficiency of the heart and improves circulation. Thoroughly cleanses the lungs of toxic gases and increases lung capacity. Tones the digestive system and abdominal organs (like the liver, stomach and intestines) by massaging the abdominal area. Tones the reproductive organs, relieves premenstrual syndrome, regularizes menstruation and eases childbirth. Relieves tension, calms the mind and develops concentration. There are a few cautions to keep in mind regarding vinyasa. If you have high blood pressure, a herniated spinal disk, sciatica, or an inguinal hernia, or if you’re pregnant, it’s probably best to forgo practicing it unless you’re working with an experienced teacher who can modify the sequence to suit your needs.
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